THE PLAYBOY BACHELOR

Our Review

​​​THE PLAYBOY BACHELOR is the second novel from Rachel Van Dyken’s THE BACHELORS OF ARIZONA series. The premise of the book is good and the emotional scenes are quite meaningful. In addition, Ms. Van Dyken does a nice job of bringing about the many facets of the characters.

Romance author Margot McCleery is a recluse. She lost her parents and half her leg in a tragic car accident when she was in high school. Due to guilt and all the stares, finger-pointing, and hushed voices, Margot has not left her mansion in years. So imagine her surprise when her ex-best friend from high school, wealthy womanizer Bentley Wellington, shows up on her doorstep. Margot’s grandmother, in cahoots with Bentley’s grandfather, purchases Bentley at a charity bachelor auction for the sole purpose of matchmaking.

Bentley has many regrets, and not keeping in touch with Margot is at the top of his list. He deserted her when she needed him most, even though his mental stability during that time was iffy. Bentley wants more than just a platonic friendship with Margot, so he has to work really hard to overcome his demons while gaining Margot’s trust. Once they are both able to forgive each other and themselves, they can forge a future together.

I liked this novel. However, I found the pace to be a bit on the slow side. Margot and Bentley spar with clever banter and their discoveries about each other are pleasantly unexpected. The secondary characters are unique in their own right and add a lot of importance to the present happenings. Overall, this is a nicely written story and I am looking forward to reading more from this author. This book can be read as a standalone.